ARLINGTON -- After going 7-for-12 with nine RBIs with runners in scoring position Thursday, the Mariners lead the Major Leagues in batting average with RISP since Aug. 6. They're hitting .340 (68-for-200) with 13 doubles, four homers and 89 RBIs since then.

Manager Lloyd McClendon said his team has devoted considerable focus this season to having a smart approach with runners on.

"I don't think it's an accident, I think it's something we stressed the first day of Spring Training -- it's preparation," McClendon said. "From a mental standpoint, doing your homework, getting in the video room, understanding what pitchers are going to do in certain situations. If you do that, you've got a better chance to be successful particularly with runners in scoring position. You take the guesswork out of it."

Thursday night's game was a prime example of McClendon's emphasis on preparation. The Mariners' big inning, a six-run second, got going with a pair of two-out walks and exploded into a five-hit, three-walk bonanza.

"All of our guys are learning how to grind at-bats out, how to be a little more patient at the plate, knowing when you can jump on first pitches, when you need to be selective, when you need to be patient," McClendon said. "It's a process, it doesn't happen overnight, but it is something that you can learn and get better at."